10 Year Liver Transplant Anniversary

Posted by admin on July 29, 2010 10:19 am / 0 Comments

I celebrated the ten year anniversary since my liver transplant yesterday by throwing out the opening pitch at the Milwaukee Brewer’s game against the Cincinnati Reds. I didn’t throw a perfect strike, but I got it there thanks to my friend Mark who coached me. I had a training session with Mark yesterday morning to get me ready. I was a little rusty, having not thrown a baseball in many years. I had the opportunity to throw out the opening pitch in 2002 at Detroit Tiger’s stadium following my Bronze Medal in Salt Lake City. I totally missed the catcher – I was so embarrassed. I was determined to redeem myself yesterday. There were three ceremonial first pitches yesterday. The first was a Girl Scout. I was certain she was going to toss a strike and I was going to bounce it and never hear the end of it. Thank God she threw it in the dirt and took the pressure off me. I was so nervous when I stepped up to the mound. I was determined not to come up short this time. After shaking off the pitch selection with George the catcher I picked my pitch, the heater. It was high and to the right, but it got there cleanly. Eight years after my Detroit Tiger’s disaster I had redeemed myself.

What a way to celebrate ten years! It was such a fun experience. I got to tour the team clubhouse with my friends and meet many of the players. I threatened to put them all on snowboards. They actually liked the idea. I thought my successful opening pitch would guarantee a win for the Brewers. They lead through the first five innings, then the wheels fell off. I cheered hard, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Reds yesterday. Enjoy the photos below from yesterday’s game.

I’m back in Madison today. I’m headed to Trek later this morning for a tour, then some waterskiing tonight. It’s humid here. I’m tossing myself in the lake at every chance. The Transplant Games kick-off this weekend in Madison. I’m looking forward to being a part of the activities and the opening ceremonies Saturday night. I hope to see you! Stop by our CKF booth at the Games expo to say hi to our Donor Dudes team.

CKBrewer’s Game Opening Pitch 7-28-2010